Hands-On Review: Insta360 ONE RS 1-Inch 360 Edition
The first consumer 360-degree camera to pair dual 1-inch CMOS sensors with Insta360’s modular ONE RS ecosystem promises huge image-quality gains and creative freedom. After three weeks of real-world testing—from sunset cityscapes to pitch-black mountain trails—here is how the flagship stacks up.
Both lenses sit behind large protective glass, hinting at the big 1-inch sensors inside.
Design and Build Quality
Dimensions: 53.2 × 49.1 × 129.3 mm (assembled)
Weight: 239 g (with battery), which feels reassuringly dense
Water resistance: IPX3 out of the box, up to 10 m with the dive case
Mounting: Standard GoPro-style folding fingers on the bracket
The detachable Core clicks into the dedicated mounting bracket securely, and the new vertical battery base improves heat dissipation. Buttons are tactile, though the small touch screen can be tricky to use with gloves.
The vertical battery makes handheld shooting comfortable and balances the tall 360 lens module.
Video Performance
Resolution and frame rates
Mode | Max Resolution | FPS |
|---|---|---|
360 Video | 5888 × 2944 | 30 |
2.35:1 Wide-Screen Export | 4320 × 2160 | 60 (using FreeFrame) |
TimeShift Hyperlapse | 6K stitched | Up to 120 (speed-up) |
The jump from 1/2-inch sensors in the X3 to dual 1-inch sensors is immediately obvious. Highlights hold detail, shadows are cleaner and overall dynamic range rivals entry-level mirrorless cameras. FlowState Stabilization plus 360 Horizon Lock eliminated every ounce of shake on a trail run without cropping heavily.
Still Photography
21 MP DNG Raw photos grade beautifully. The PureShot HDR mode merges eight exposures in-camera and avoids the garish tone-mapping common in action cams. Colors lean neutral rather than Insta360’s usual punchy profile, something purists will love.
Software and Workflow
Insta360 Studio (desktop) and the revamped mobile app make reframing painless. AI templates auto-detect key moments or let you spin reels with clever effects like Sky Swap. Editing 6K 360 footage is CPU-intensive; expect real-time previews only on higher-end rigs.
Battery Life
The 1350 mAh vertical battery averaged 48 minutes of continuous 6K capture at 25 °C, roughly 10 minutes less than the standard RS 360 module but acceptable given the larger sensors. USB-C quick-charge tops it up in 70 minutes.
Pros and Cons
Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
Class-leading low-light performance for a 360 camera | Heavier and bulkier than competitors |
True 6K resolution with excellent dynamic range | Requires powerful computer for smooth editing |
Rock-solid FlowState stabilization and horizon lock | Screen is small and not front-facing |
Modular core works with other ONE RS lenses | Only IPX3 water resistance without extra housing |
Should You Buy It?
If you are a filmmaker, real estate pro, or outdoor creator who prioritizes image quality over pocket-size convenience, the Insta360 ONE RS 1-Inch 360 Edition is the most capable all-in-one spherical camera on the market. Casual vloggers might prefer the slimmer X3, but for professional results in challenging light, this Leica-assisted module is worth every penny.
Rating: 9 / 10